Meet Rob Harvell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rob Harvell.

Hi Rob, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m a 2006 graduate of Appalachian State University in Boone North Carolina with a degree in Communication Electronic Media Broadcasting. I started my career with an internship at NASCAR Productions. During my tenure at NASCAR, I produced my first five ESPN Films documentaries. With the help of my mentor Rory Karpf and his production company (First Row Films), I left NASCAR productions after ten years and started producing content of my own.

From there, I produced countless films with First Row Films including ESPN Films “The Book of Manning”, “I Hate Christian Laettner” and “Nature Boy” (Ric Flair); TNT “Shaq Life” (Shaquille O’Neal); Netflix “Coach Snoop” (Snoop Dogg); and UFC’s “Dana White: Lookin’ for a Fight”.

I have also directed the theatrical release of “The Bowden Dynasty” (Bobby Bowden) and Barstool Sports “Coach Prime” (Deion Sanders).

I am currently producing the feature film “Grace Point” directed by Karpf and staring Johnny Lowe, Jim Parrack, Harlan Drum, Andrew McCarthy, and Sean Carrigan.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting my career in film production was definitely the biggest struggle. The pay in the early stages of a career is minimal and the competition for better opportunities can be minimal. After years of extremely low pay, I had given up my dreams and decided to move in a different direction. Thankfully, I have always had a strong family support system. My Mom never let me give up and always convinced me to stick it out. When the NASCAR Hall of Fame came to Charlotte, I received my opportunity producing all the video content in the exhibits. This was my proving ground, from there I never looked back.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a film director and producer. My passion is in sports films and documentaries however I have branched out into productions with History Channel, Nat Geo, AMC along with feature films.

Being from a small town in North Carolina, I am most proud of the connections I have made and the influential individuals I have worked with. So many people say, “it’s not what you know but who you know.” I am proud to prove that otherwise. I knew nobody when I went into the industry and accomplished my dreams through hard work and determination.

I feel it is that determination and my drive to succeed that sets me apart from others. I have a strong commitment to make my hometown of Laurinburg, NC and my family proud. I live every day striving to do better to do just that.

What matters most to you?
My legacy in the world. It may be cliche but the only thing that you can leave in this world is your legacy. Loyalty and respect are the two things you can give to everyone you meet in life. You can advance far in life and in your career living with these two qualities. I never forget where I am from and the steps of the ladder that allowed me to be where I am today. I am loyal to Laurinburg, I am loyal to Appalachian State, and will now always be loyal to the City of Nashville for accepting me into such an amazing community.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.robharvell.com
• Instagram: rlhproducer
• Facebook: facebook.com/robharvellbps
• Twitter: rlhproducer

Image Credits
rqdeberry.com for headshot photo